13May
UndergraduateCourse summary
The Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) (MA) is a course designed for those passionate about English language teaching and eager to develop the skills needed to teach learners from diverse backgrounds and abilities. Whether you are from the UK or overseas, this programme provides the essential knowledge and TESOL practical skills to pursue a career in teaching English to non-native speakers of English across various global teaching contexts. This course is carefully crafted to train self-reflective language teaching professionals who value understanding and growth in their teaching practice. It offers a solid grounding in language teaching theory and practice, focusing on applied linguistics and language teaching pedagogy. You’ll explore second language acquisition and research-based methods, all while building the confidence and adaptability needed to succeed in this field. As you progress, you’ll gain both practical teaching skills and in-depth knowledge of TESOL research and curriculum development, which are invaluable in any educational setting. A unique element of the TESOL (MA) is its focus on research skills, enabling you to design and carry out research projects on topics that matter in English language education. This emphasis on research also provides opportunities for career advancement in TESOL, including pathways into doctoral studies. Graduates with these skills can go on to make significant contributions to the field or take up roles in TESOL research and curriculum development, community-based TESOL projects, or educational leadership. International students are warmly welcomed and will need to meet specific English language requirements to join this programme. The University requires an IELTS score of at least 6.0 (or equivalent), with no component below 5.5. Meeting these standards ensures that all students have the language abilities needed for study at the Master’s level and can fully engage with both the theoretical and practical aspects of the course. Completing this TESOL (MA) will equip you not only with a teaching certification but also with a deep understanding of linguistics and education. It opens doors to teaching and training roles worldwide, preparing you to support students of all ages and abilities. In addition to providing the essential skills to teach English language, this programme helps you build a fulfilling, adaptable career in an ever-evolving field.
Modules
In the first year, you’ll establish a foundation in language teaching theory and practice. Key modules include Current Theories of Second Language Acquisition and English Language Teacher Education, where you’ll explore effective teaching strategies and gain insight into the processes of language learning. Optional modules such as Key Issues in Linguistics and Teaching EFL allow you to tailor your studies to specific interests. With Literary Research Methods and Approaches and a Thesis Proposal, you’ll begin honing the research skills that will support your future studies. Compulsory Literary Research Methods and Approaches (15 credits) Thesis proposal (15 Credits) English Language Teacher Education (30 credits) Current Theories of Second Language Acquisition (30 credits) Optional Key Issues in Linguistics (30 credits) Teaching EFL (30 credits) The second year focuses on your MA Dissertation (TESOL), where you’ll apply your theoretical and practical knowledge to a research project on a chosen TESOL topic. This dissertation allows you to explore areas of TESOL research and curriculum that interest you, while reinforcing self-reflective language teaching practices. This research-based approach not only strengthens your understanding of applied linguistics but also prepares you for potential career advancement in TESOL and future academic research opportunities. Compulsory MA Dissertation (TESOL) (60 credits)
Assessment method
The programmes assessment strategy consists of formative and summative assessments. Formative assessments aim to use the form of ‘spiral assessment’, encouraging students to revisit and implement standards that have been covered in previous modules. Likewise, self-reflexivity as a professional attitude that is expected of each graduate of this programme will be embedded and practiced though specific assignments in all modules. Typical assessment formats include essays, oral presentations, critical reviews, teaching demos, and other short written assignments. Module assessment is designed to prepare students for the task of submitting an MA dissertation in Part 2. Some modules therefore use a standard assessment pattern consisting of one or two longer essays and a presentation. In some modules, however, student progress is assessed by using the portfolio format. The portfolio offers greater flexibility in the assessment of professionally focused skills, both collaborative and personalised, than the standard essay/presentation format.
How to apply
International applicants
If you are not from the UK and you do not already have residency here, you may need to apply for a visa. For courses of more than six months’ duration you will require a Student visa. International students who require a Student visa should apply for our full-time courses as these qualify for Student visa sponsorship. For full information read our visa application and guides. Please note students receiving US Federal Aid are only able to apply for in-person, on-campus programmes which will have no elements of online study.
Entry requirements
Applicants are expected to have a good first degree (upper second or above), although every application is considered in its own merit, so places may be offered on the basis of professional qualification and relevant experiences.
English language requirements
If English is not your first language or you have not previously studied in English, our usual requirement is the equivalent of an International English Language Testing System (IELTS Academic Test) score of 6.0, with not less than 5.5 in each of the sub-tests. We also accept other English language tests.
Acceptable Evidence of English
https://www.uwtsd.ac.uk/apply/international-applications/english-language-requirements
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
| England | £6800 | Whole course |
| Northern Ireland | £6800 | Whole course |
| Scotland | £6800 | Whole course |
| Wales | £6800 | Whole course |
| Channel Islands | £6800 | Whole course |
| Republic of Ireland | £6800 | Whole course |
| EU | £10500 | Whole course |
| International | £10500 | Whole course |
Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .
Additional fee information
No additional fees or cost information has been supplied for this course, please contact the provider directly.
Provider information
University of Wales Trinity Saint David
College Road
Carmarthen
SA31 3EP